Development of high strength zirconium alloys

Abstract Assessment of the effects of various alloying elements and strengthening methods in zirconium alloys has indicated that alloys with adequate strengtl1 for use as pressure tube material at temperatures above 400°C can be developed. Ternary, quaternary and quinary alloys based on zirconium have been prepared and subjected to various thermal and deformation treatments. Their age-hardening behaviour and tensile properties are described and some information on their corrosion resistance and response to fast neutron irradiation at 300° and 450°C is presented. The target of UTS in the range 90–120 kpsi at 450°C can be achieved in alloys having an acceptable thermal neutron capture cross section. Adequate strength combined with the ductility necessary for pressure tube fabrication can be obtained by air cooling selected alloys from temperatures high in the (α + β) range. Resume L'evaluation des effets de divers elements d'alliage et des methodes dc durcissement permet de croire que des alliagcs ayant une...